Flexibility

Tropical Storm VUCA. A chaotic environment can feel like a storm. VUCA is the the military acronym for that effect, which stands for Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity.

H,G, Wells noted that: “Adapt or perish, now as ever, is nature’s inexorable imperative.” And in a VUCA world, flexibility becomes a mission critical competency for well-being and effectiveness.

The individual with the most choices wins. The more choices you have in responding to any situation, the more likely you are to have at least one that will work well. Flexible people are intrinsically open to different ideas and different ways of doing things, and they more easily embrace both. As a result, they have more choices when faced with decisions that can range from dealing with a problem to choosing a career. Having multiple options improves health — emotional and physical. Recognizing that you have choices helps you to feel more in control. By taking ownership of your experience you lower your stress and make better choices.

If any of these behaviors are true of you or associates with whom you work, you’ll find action tips at EQDashboard.com:

Chooses status quo over change

Ignores indicators of the need for change

Digs in heels when opposed

Seems to think there’s just one right answer or solution

Becomes resistant, defensive or argumentative in the face of change

Action learning tips and learning assignments on the job are a click away at EQDashboard.com.

You might also consider (a sampling of suggestions from EQDashboard.com):

Johnson, Spencer. Who Moved My Cheese: An Amazing Way to Deal with Change in Your Work and in Your Life. New York: Putnam Publishing Group, 1998.